People......PLEASE !!!!!

[Graspher]

For the active folks who are walking and jogging in the early morning (read that as in the dark) - for gosh sakes - carry a flashlight or wear some form of lighting gadget or at least put on a reflective vest.

If one is walking in the dark while wearing dark clothing - I as a bicyclist can not see you. I don't have a 12 volt headlight on my bike revealing dark objects 150 feet in front of me.

As part of my 20 mile bike loop I travel along CHURCHILL DOWNS between 5 and 6 a.m. There are street lights and ambient light along that road but there are also MANY pockets of absolute pure DARKNESS.

Over this past weekend I encountered 3 individuals walking along the MMP who perfectly blended in with the darkness.

I'm traveling along at 12 mph with white blinky lights on the front of my bike and a red blinky on the rear. My white lights do not illuminate anything - they are eye catchers for others to see me.

I'm coming up from behind - you don't see my lights and my bike is quiet - you are camouflaged in the darkness - I may or may not be able to see you.

Don't chance an unwelcomed intersection between you and me.

If you walk, jog, rollerblade, skate or longboard in the dark - make sure you can be seen by those in front and in back of you.

The majority of folks I encounter in the early a.m. are highly visible - thanks to all who are.

For those who aren't - use a smidge of common sense and light yourself up. It's about safety - be safe!

[Bjeanj]

Great reminder.

[Stu from NYC]

Good reminder.

Personally when I am out in the dark I like to sing and that keeps people well away from me.

[Graspher]

Good reminder.

Personally when I am out in the dark I like to sing and that keeps people well away from me.

I’d try that but I can’t sing cause I’m constantly gasping....

[Toymeister]

Quote: I don't have a 12 volt headlight on my bike revealing dark objects 150 feet in front of me.

-and-

My white lights do not illuminate anything - they are eye catchers for others.

end quotes


While I agree that everyone should make themselves visible it is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to have a headlight. It is LAW in Florida. Your light must be visible 500 feet away, here is the statute.


Statutes & Constitution
:View Statutes
:

Online Sunshine (http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.2065.html)

Please don't risk your assets, if you hit anyone, driving as you described it is YOUR fault.

[EdFNJ]

While I agree that everyone should make themselves visible it is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to have a headlight. It is LAW in Florida. Your light must be visible 500 feet away, here is the statute.

Yes and specifically from FL 316.2065 Para 7: Every bicycle in use between sunset and sunrise shall be equipped with a lamp on the front exhibiting a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front and a lamp and reflector on the rear each exhibiting a red light visible from a distance of 600 feet to the rear.

Not sure if this only applies to driving on roadways though.

[Velvet]

Please get a light for your bike or stop riding in the dark. You expect the world to get out of your way. It is not likely to happen. But you are right, people in the dark, including riders should wear something white, a cap, a scarf anything to be seen.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

A light that is visible from 500 feet is not necessarily illuminating objects at 500 feet enough to be seen from that distance. We can see the stars but they don't offer very much light for us to see.

But I agree. If you're going to ride a bicycle in the dark it is your responsibility to have a light that enables you to see far enough to not be a danger to pedestrians.

Pedestrians wearing dark clothing at night may be stupid, but they are not going to be held responsible if they are hit by a bicycle.

[Polar Bear]

Being seen for 500 feet and illuminating so you can see 500 feet are two totally different things. The first is Florida law for bicyclists.

[Graspher]

Yes and specifically from FL 316.2065 Para 7: Every bicycle in use between sunset and sunrise shall be equipped with a lamp on the front exhibiting a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front and a lamp and reflector on the rear each exhibiting a red light visible from a distance of 600 feet to the rear.

Not sure if this only applies to driving on roadways though.


Read carefully....”white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet...”

My 2 white blinky lights are visible from 500 feet or farther. I’m in compliance with that.

They do not illuminate like a car’s headlight. I will not see someone 20 feet ahead of me in the darkness - but I will be seen from 500 feet plus.

Being visible and illuminating a path are two different concepts. Think match versus flashlight.

[Toymeister]

Read carefully....”white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet...”

My 2 white blinky lights are visible from 500 feet or farther. I’m in compliance with that.

They do not illuminate like a car’s headlight. I will not see someone 20 feet ahead of me in the darkness - but I will be seen from 500 feet plus.

Being visible and illuminating a path are two different concepts. Think match versus flashlight.
When I posted this statute I was certain the forum regulars would post comments like yours. It would not matter in a civil case, you would be negligent. I could easily get a statement from the winky light manufacturer that it was not intended to illuminate your path.

Let me be blunt: Your problem of not seeing people needs to be addressed by YOU.

[TooColdNJ]

For the active folks who are walking and jogging in the early morning (read that as in the dark) - for gosh sakes - carry a flashlight or wear some form of lighting gadget or at least put on a reflective vest.

If one is walking in the dark while wearing dark clothing - I as a bicyclist can not see you. I don't have a 12 volt headlight on my bike revealing dark objects 150 feet in front of me.

As part of my 20 mile bike loop I travel along CHURCHILL DOWNS between 5 and 6 a.m. There are street lights and ambient light along that road but there are also MANY pockets of absolute pure DARKNESS.

Over this past weekend I encountered 3 individuals walking along the MMP who perfectly blended in with the darkness.

I'm traveling along at 12 mph with white blinky lights on the front of my bike and a red blinky on the rear. My white lights do not illuminate anything - they are eye catchers for others to see me.

I'm coming up from behind - you don't see my lights and my bike is quiet - you are camouflaged in the darkness - I may or may not be able to see you.

Don't chance an unwelcomed intersection between you and me.

If you walk, jog, rollerblade, skate or longboard in the dark - make sure you can be seen by those in front and in back of you.

The majority of folks I encounter in the early a.m. are highly visible - thanks to all who are.

For those who aren't - use a smidge of common sense and light yourself up. It's about safety - be safe!

Try:
On your right!
Coming behind you!
YO! WATCH YOUR LEFT.!
coming through!
Watch you backs!

Or Wear a whistle around you neck

[jaj523]

I thought walkers were supposed to walk facing traffic. That only makes common sense. I want to be able to see what is coming toward me. People approaching from the rear are not visible. And if you are walking at night, you most definitely need to wear something that is visible in the dark. Also common sense!

[Polar Bear]

When I posted this statute I was certain the forum regulars would post comments like yours. It would not matter in a civil case, you would be negligent. I could easily get a statement from the winky light manufacturer that it was not intended to illuminate your path.

Let me be blunt: Your problem of not seeing people needs to be addressed by YOU.
If you do go to court, I hope you're clearer in your presentation. I can't even figure out which side of the case you're arguing. :D

[Arctic Fox]

For the active folks who are walking and jogging in the early morning...carry a flashlight or wear some form of lighting gadget or at least put on a reflective vest.

My white lights do not illuminate anything - they are eye catchers for others to see me.

While I concur with the spirit of your safety reminder, wearing a reflective vest will not help unless it is illuminated by the other person's light.

Wear light-colored clothing or carry a flashlight.

[Toymeister]

If you do go to court, I hope you're clearer in your presentation. I can't even figure out which side of the case you're arguing. :D

That is useful.

What about you do you think is the guy who does not illuminate his path, operating at a greater speed than walkers, correct in blaming the walkers for not making themselves visible enough to satisfy his needs? Or do you side with me the the biker needs to get adequate safety equipment to operate his bicycle in the conditions (darkness) that he choses?

Is this biker a potential victim of careless walkers?

[Tennisbum]

Look at as thinning the heard. It may be too late to stop them from breeding, but maybe we can avoid their off-spring running around!

[Polar Bear]

A biker is obligated to make him/herself visible for a minimum distance per the laws of the state. A walker is obligated to make him/herself visible per the laws of survival.

[MandoMan]

Read carefully....”white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet...”

My 2 white blinky lights are visible from 500 feet or farther. I’m in compliance with that.

They do not illuminate like a car’s headlight. I will not see someone 20 feet ahead of me in the darkness - but I will be seen from 500 feet plus.

Being visible and illuminating a path are two different concepts. Think match versus flashlight.

My ex-wife used to walk three miles in the dark every night on roads with no illumination. She wore a vest with high quality reflecting tape on it and a Flashing red light behind and carried a bright flashlight to turn on and wave if a car was coming.

Even a flashing light on a bicycle will alert a rider to a walker with reflective tape on a vest. It won’t help with someone in a black hoody.

[MandoMan]

[QUOTE=Choro&Swing;1819546]My ex-wife used to walk three miles in the dark every night on roads with no illumination. She wore a vest with high quality reflecting tape on it and a flashing red light behind and carried a bright flashlight to turn on and wave if a car was coming.

Even a flashing light on a bicycle will alert a rider to a walker with reflective tape on a vest. It won’t help with someone in a black hoody.

[MandoMan]

My ex-wife used to walk three miles in the dark every night on roads with no illumination. She wore a vest with high quality reflecting tape on it and a flashing red light behind and carried a bright flashlight to turn on and wave if a car was coming.

Even a flashing light on a bicycle will alert a rider to a walker with reflective tape on a vest. It won’t help with someone in a black hoody. If she had adopted the black hoody look, she would be my late wife.

[Graspher]

Try:
On your right!
Coming behind you!
YO! WATCH YOUR LEFT.!
coming through!
Watch you backs!

Or Wear a whistle around you neck

Yes, thanks. I do practice that when those in front of me are visible.

[Graspher]

When I posted this statute I was certain the forum regulars would post comments like yours. It would not matter in a civil case, you would be negligent. I could easily get a statement from the winky light manufacturer that it was not intended to illuminate your path.

Let me be blunt: Your problem of not seeing people needs to be addressed by YOU.


Who takes responsibility for those who don't want to be seen?

[Graspher]

That is useful.

What about you do you think is the guy who does not illuminate his path, operating at a greater speed than walkers, correct in blaming the walkers for not making themselves visible enough to satisfy his needs? Or do you side with me the the biker needs to get adequate safety equipment to operate his bicycle in the conditions (darkness) that he choses?

Is this biker a potential victim of careless walkers?

:ohdear: The only need I'm expressing is for folks to use a bit of common sense.

[EdFNJ]

Read carefully....”white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet...”

My 2 white blinky lights are visible from 500 feet or farther. I’m in compliance with that.

They do not illuminate like a car’s headlight. I will not see someone 20 feet ahead of me in the darkness - but I will be seen from 500 feet plus.

Being visible and illuminating a path are two different concepts. Think match versus flashlight.


Yes, carefully is the keyword. It doesn't read "blinky lights" it reads LAMP. I would think there is a difference between a "blinky" LED and a LAMP. If my desk LAMP was BLINKY I'd be in trouble. In either case if it went to court you'd likely be paying especially if DAN gets the case. ;)

[Velvet]

The blinking light is to let others see you. But you need to see them so you can avoid them, that is why you need a lamp. And watch out for people with metal walking sticks. I’ve seen them stop motorcycles dead by being shoved in the spokes, when a biker got too close.

[Neils]

Try:
On your right!
Coming behind you!
YO! WATCH YOUR LEFT.!
coming through!
Watch you backs!

Or Wear a whistle around you neck

Any deaf people in TV??? Slow down, its on you to watch out for others. Beep Beep

[chuckk281]

For the active folks who are walking and jogging in the early morning (read that as in the dark) - for gosh sakes - carry a flashlight or wear some form of lighting gadget or at least put on a reflective vest.

If one is walking in the dark while wearing dark clothing - I as a bicyclist can not see you. I don't have a 12 volt headlight on my bike revealing dark objects 150 feet in front of me.

As part of my 20 mile bike loop I travel along CHURCHILL DOWNS between 5 and 6 a.m. There are street lights and ambient light along that road but there are also MANY pockets of absolute pure DARKNESS.

Over this past weekend I encountered 3 individuals walking along the MMP who perfectly blended in with the darkness.

I'm traveling along at 12 mph with white blinky lights on the front of my bike and a red blinky on the rear. My white lights do not illuminate anything - they are eye catchers for others to see me.

I'm coming up from behind - you don't see my lights and my bike is quiet - you are camouflaged in the darkness - I may or may not be able to see you.

Don't chance an unwelcomed intersection between you and me.

If you walk, jog, rollerblade, skate or longboard in the dark - make sure you can be seen by those in front and in back of you.

The majority of folks I encounter in the early a.m. are highly visible - thanks to all who are.

For those who aren't - use a smidge of common sense and light yourself up. It's about safety - be safe!

Totally agree from a golf cart perspective!

[donassaid]

And quit walking in the cart lanes. That's what sidewalks are for!

[dnobles]

Thank you Grasper!! We also ride our bikes and have trouble seeing people in dark clothing.

[golfing eagles]

The blinking light is to let others see you. But you need to see them so you can avoid them, that is why you need a lamp. And watch out for people with metal walking sticks. I’ve seen them stop motorcycles dead by being shoved in the spokes, when a biker got too close.

Are you serious???

I don't ride a bike or a motorcycle, but if someone tried to shove a metal pole in my spokes, they would be getting an impromptu colonoscopy, sideways.

[banjobob]

Good reminder.

Personally when I am out in the dark I like to sing and that keeps people well away from me.

So that’s the gurgling sounds I heard. Lol

[Gpsma]

My ex-wife used to walk three miles in the dark every night on roads with no illumination. She wore a vest with high quality reflecting tape on it and a Flashing red light behind and carried a bright flashlight to turn on and wave if a car was coming.

Even a flashing light on a bicycle will alert a rider to a walker with reflective tape on a vest. It won’t help with someone in a black hoody.

Reminds me of one of my neighbors up north who was a speed walker. He had a reflective vest but he equiped the vest with a string of battery powered blinking christmas lights. It worked, you could could easily see him.

[drgoofy]

backing out of my driveway in complete darkness. He was wearing dark clothing. Don't know how I missed him, really. Bet he "lightened up" after that experience!

[Bill1701]

If you are coming up behind them, it sounds like they are on the wrong side of the path. They should be walking facing oncoming traffic.

[Grill Meister]

Let me make a suggestion. I live in Pennecamp and drive my golf cart early in the morning up and down St. Charles and Bailey Trail..... at that time of morning, it is pitch black and I have seen any number of walkers, wearing neutral colored clothes, walking either on the sidewalk or in the multi-lane.....you cannot see them until you are right on top of them. So, this is what I would suggest. "It's better to light one little flashlight than to cuss the dark." I went to Walmart and bought little l.e.d. flashlights for $1.00 each. I carry them with me in the golf cart and give them to walkers who have no visibility without them. I have given away, probably 60 or more of these little flashlights. The call me "the flashlight boy". What don't you try it.

[Girlcopper]

A light that is visible from 500 feet is not necessarily illuminating objects at 500 feet enough to be seen from that distance. We can see the stars but they don't offer very much light for us to see.

But I agree. If you're going to ride a bicycle in the dark it is your responsibility to have a light that enables you to see far enough to not be a danger to pedestrians.

Pedestrians wearing dark clothing at night may be stupid, but they are not going to be held responsible if they are hit by a bicycle.
Exactly! You see its a problem then you do something about it. Dont expect others to do it for you

[larrytx219]

A reflective vest will work great when cars and carts are approaching you in the dark. Your little penlight is handy when you need to look down at the pooper scooper, however, it has little value for visibility. I attempt to be as aware as possible driving but I still almost run someone over frequently at 5:30 AM, misty mornings especially. Don't let your dogs wander into the street because your leash won't protect them. Invisible runners are just playing with fire. :MOJE_whot:

[theruizs]

Quote: I don't have a 12 volt headlight on my bike revealing dark objects 150 feet in front of me.

-and-

My white lights do not illuminate anything - they are eye catchers for others.

end quotes


While I agree that everyone should make themselves visible it is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to have a headlight. It is LAW in Florida. Your light must be visible 500 feet away, here is the statute.


Statutes & Constitution
:View Statutes
:

Online Sunshine (http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.2065.html)

Please don't risk your assets, if you hit anyone, driving as you described it is YOUR fault.

You should actually read the whole post before responding. A light that is visible from 500 feet does not light up everything in front of it for 500 feet. And if a dark dressed walker has their back turned, they won’t see it and the rider may not see them. If you actually read the post you’ll see the rider is compliant, but that does not guarantee the walker will be safe.

[Joe C.]

It's really simple. You are responsible (most of the time) if you hit a pedestrian. Yeah, he or she should be wearing something that makes them visible in the darkness, but YOU need to see where you are going. YOU need a light that illuminates the area in front of you that allows you to stop in time. What if there was a 12 foot alligator lying in the darkness.... or a large branch lying in the path? What then?

When stupid people are about, we need to be smarter.

[theruizs]

It's really simple. You are responsible (most of the time) if you hit a pedestrian. Yeah, he or she should be wearing something that makes them visible in the darkness, but YOU need to see where you are going. YOU need a light that illuminates the area in front of you that allows you to stop in time. What if there was a 12 foot alligator lying in the darkness.... or a large branch lying in the path? What then?

When stupid people are about, we need to be smarter.

I have come across people who are hard to see with my car lights, let alone a bicycle light. It is also the responsibility of the walker to dress appropriately to be seen if walking at night. It doesn’t matter who gets the blame, if someone gets hit and hurt two peoples lives are turned upside down. YOU need to give better advice, or maybe none sometimes when isn’t really helpful.

[justjim]

Amen regarding being able to see walkers when it’s dark, rainy or a bit foggy. Wife and I were leaving one early morning to go outside the bubble and we had a frighting experience of almost hitting a couple of walkers in our village who were walking on the wrong side of the street (right side with traffic) dark clothing and no light. It was a bit foggy and still dark outside. I saw them barely in time to avoid a tragic accident.

[kendi]

Very scary riding in the dark with no visibility in certain areas. I don’t get why you would even think about doing that? Are you expecting the alligators and other animals wondering around in the dark to dress for your benefit as well?

[Spalumbos62]

Quote: I don't have a 12 volt headlight on my bike revealing dark objects 150 feet in front of me.

-and-

My white lights do not illuminate anything - they are eye catchers for others.

end quotes


While I agree that everyone should make themselves visible it is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to have a headlight. It is LAW in Florida. Your light must be visible 500 feet away, here is the statute.


Statutes & Constitution
:View Statutes
:

Online Sunshine (http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.2065.html)

Please don't risk your assets, if you hit anyone, driving as you described it is YOUR fault.

His post,to me, sounded like he had the correct equipment. He stated he had an illuminating frt light and blinking rear, that others can see him coming. He does not seem to have a flood lamp lighting a pathway ahead. Do they even make that? So trying to imagine this senerial, he's traveling along,at a good speed,his lights are blinking and lighting the ground,as a flash light might, and BAM there is someone walking right ahead, dark clothes,at the very least not reflective, who goes right,who goes left. Seems to me both have a 50%here. And not for anything,if I was out walking that early I'd have a major flood light in my hands...not for bikes, but for gators or any other creature....lol stay in bed.the 😊

[collie1228]

Some people simply don't get the point. The poster is pleading with foolish people walking in the dark to please carry a light. I ride my bike most days early in the morning when it's very dark. I have an LED headlight and a blinking LED tail light on my bike. The headlight can easily be seen from 500 feet, but it doesn't illuminate my path for 500 feet. This morning there were three stupid people out walking in the dark without a light. When I went by the single person, I told her she should carry a light for her own protection. No response. The second encounter was two women without a light, one on each side of the multimode path walking toward me, and I was forced to ride my bike (slowly) between them. I was within 40-50 feet before I saw them. What in the world were they thinking? Several other walkers were out this morning carrying a light. Smart people.

[Number 10 GI]

And watch out for people with metal walking sticks. I’ve seen them stop motorcycles dead by being shoved in the spokes, when a biker got too close.

I would not recommend that at all. That could yield a long stay in a place with bars on the windows and doors or could possibly end up with a severe beating from an irate biker.

[Fuzz323]

Sorry - I dont get it! From what I have seen myself there are walkers all the time in the golf cart lanes on the main streets in the villages. Why is this? There are sidewalks right next to them that cost (us) a lot of money. If I was a walker I would be ON THE SIDEWALK. Why put yourself in a situation where you may be run into/over by a bike or a golf cart. The most dangerous thing in the villages is a golfer on his way to an early round in the dark. They are not thinking of much but the game or are still asleep. (Three close calls with them on a residential street while walking my dog while waving a very bright LED flashlight at them.)

There is another thought here - you now have electric bikes that are doing 20 or more mph in the golf cart lane. Will a walker survive an impact like that - maybe or maybe not. You can not or will not hear these coming like you might hear a golf cart. When a sidewalk is available USE IT!

[Rosebud1949]

Also to joggers and walkers on the road at any time, beware..... Use the path or golf cart lane next to it, with your flashing lights attached to your body.....please do not use the cart lane with no path access adjacent. Otherwise a cart has to move out into traffic to avoid you.. With the speed that some cars are driving at now there will be an accident it is only a matter of time.

[Number 10 GI]

Safety is a personal responsibility, don't depend on the other person to be responsible for it. A person walking or bicycle riding in the dark without lights or reflective clothing is a prime candidate for the Darwin Award. While you are recuperating in the hospital from being struck by a car, golf cart or bicycle or possibly in the morgue, does it really matter if you were in the right? Common sense!

[Velvet]

Are you serious???

I don't ride a bike or a motorcycle, but if someone tried to shove a metal pole in my spokes, they would be getting an impromptu colonoscopy, sideways.

We had a bank robber trying to escape in my north city on his trials motorcycle he had parked on the sidewalk. As he got on his bike and passed a little old lady on the sidewalk she whacked him with her heavyIsh purse and he fell off. He was arrested. I don’t remember if she was charged or decorated.

There are many other stories. It is just better to be considerate for others (and not rob a bank) in the first place in my opinion.

[MPStrange]

Walkers facing traffic solves this along with reflective clothing

[PugMom]

Are you serious???

I don't ride a bike or a motorcycle, but if someone tried to shove a metal pole in my spokes, they would be getting an impromptu colonoscopy, sideways.

:1rotfl::popcorn::1rotfl:

[Ndomines]

Simple fix
Ride on the road. You are less apt to run into a walker as you peddle along at 12mph. At the time you ride there is not much traffic. You can exercise your right of way, and remember stop signs are not just for when you feel like stopping. BIKE RIDERS GET PRETTY MILITANT when it comes to how the motor vehicle laws protect their rights.
Yield to faster moving vehicles, keep to the right and when you see a large group of bike riders on the road exercising their right, be sure to tell them large groups impede traffic and creates dangerous situations. Also tell the block head at the rear of the group, you know , it’s the one on the left hugging the line as if to protect the group from behind, only a complete idiot would put their body out there with this false sense of safety. Better yet
Get them to take a safety course.
I agree about the walkers wearing dark cloths on the MMP and the streets as well. Dummies are not in short supply.


QUOTE=Graspher;1819343]For the active folks who are walking and jogging in the early morning (read that as in the dark) - for gosh sakes - carry a flashlight or wear some form of lighting gadget or at least put on a reflective vest.

If one is walking in the dark while wearing dark clothing - I as a bicyclist can not see you. I don't have a 12 volt headlight on my bike revealing dark objects 150 feet in front of me.

As part of my 20 mile bike loop I travel along CHURCHILL DOWNS between 5 and 6 a.m. There are street lights and ambient light along that road but there are also MANY pockets of absolute pure DARKNESS.

Over this past weekend I encountered 3 individuals walking along the MMP who perfectly blended in with the darkness.

I'm traveling along at 12 mph with white blinky lights on the front of my bike and a red blinky on the rear. My white lights do not illuminate anything - they are eye catchers for others to see me.

I'm coming up from behind - you don't see my lights and my bike is quiet - you are camouflaged in the darkness - I may or may not be able to see you.

Don't chance an unwelcomed intersection between you and me.

If you walk, jog, rollerblade, skate or longboard in the dark - make sure you can be seen by those in front and in back of you.

The majority of folks I encounter in the early a.m. are highly visible - thanks to all who are.

For those who aren't - use a smidge of common sense and light yourself up. It's about safety - be safe![/QUOTE]

[LLamers]

Anyone out walking after dark should have at least a flashlight - even better light & reflective clothing and please also put something reflective on your dog!!! I don't want to hit either one of you, but at night even with headlights in dark clothing you can not be seen from a distance. And your dog may be at the far end of your retractable leash - not near you and not seen without reflective accessories. Whose at fault is secondary to injuries or death of either person or pet! Please be safe!

[golfing eagles]

Sorry - I dont get it! From what I have seen myself there are walkers all the time in the golf cart lanes on the main streets in the villages. Why is this? There are sidewalks right next to them that cost (us) a lot of money. If I was a walker I would be ON THE SIDEWALK. Why put yourself in a situation where you may be run into/over by a bike or a golf cart. The most dangerous thing in the villages is a golfer on his way to an early round in the dark. They are not thinking of much but the game or are still asleep. (Three close calls with them on a residential street while walking my dog while waving a very bright LED flashlight at them.)

There is another thought here - you now have electric bikes that are doing 20 or more mph in the golf cart lane. Will a walker survive an impact like that - maybe or maybe not. You can not or will not hear these coming like you might hear a golf cart. When a sidewalk is available USE IT!

Not only the safety factor, but it is ILLEGAL. Florida statute 316.130 sec. 3 states "(3) Where sidewalks are provided, no pedestrian shall, unless required by other circumstances, walk along and upon the portion of a roadway paved for vehicular traffic." I have no idea what the attraction is to walking in a lane designated for carts going 20 mph . (and I'm not talking about the few feet people jump into the cart lane to maintain "social distancing", I'm talking about those that just take their whole walk in the cart lane)

[Debfrommaine]

Sorry - I dont get it! From what I have seen myself there are walkers all the time in the golf cart lanes on the main streets in the villages. Why is this? There are sidewalks right next to them that cost (us) a lot of money. If I was a walker I would be ON THE SIDEWALK. Why put yourself in a situation where you may be run into/over by a bike or a golf cart. The most dangerous thing in the villages is a golfer on his way to an early round in the dark. They are not thinking of much but the game or are still asleep. (Three close calls with them on a residential street while walking my dog while waving a very bright LED flashlight at them.)

There is another thought here - you now have electric bikes that are doing 20 or more mph in the golf cart lane. Will a walker survive an impact like that - maybe or maybe not. You can not or will not hear these coming like you might hear a golf cart. When a sidewalk is available USE IT!

Well said. Every day I travel Morse Blvd and there is at least one car travelling with no headlights on. Today again .....6:10am, no car lights the entire way. Seriously, every week I witness it.

[Bikeracer2009]

I raced bikes, raced mountain bikes through the woods in the dark and road my bike across the country. I regularly put 20 to 30 thousand miles on my bike yearly for at least 5 straight years. I only say this to show where I'm coming from.
I want to say the headlights I used had around 1800 lumens? I had them on the stem and one on my helmet. The helmet light made cornering much easier as the light followed my eyes.

If memory serves me well I want to say running over the end of a stick was my biggest concern. In a corner you could roll the front wheel out and low side the bike. In a straight line a stick could flip up into my spokes and high side me over the bars. I never did crash my bike while using these lights. I did have some very bad daylight accidents. One with a dog that ran away from his owner and hit my front wheel while I was going about 22 mph. I was paralyzed for a few terrifying minutes and spent 5 days in the hospital. While riding to the beach on a training ride another cyclists swerved and took out my front wheel. My helmet retention system failed and I now have a TBI (tramatic brain injury) that is permanent. I suffer terrible headaches that can last for weeks.

It's great that TV has all of these trails to keep cyclists off the roadways. I may get a bike for the trails some day and enjoy riding again?

I took precautions and still had to replace a disk in my neck, a simple accident now could leave me paralyzed and I have my brain injury. Consider looking into getting a decent riding light for riding in the dark. I wouldn't use the law as my guide. 500 lumens is not enough.

My .02

[talleyjm]

Highly recommend Amazon’s BSEEN LED dog collar for dusk or night walkers. It’s a USB rechargeable Glowing Pet Collar also used by humans! It puts out a super bright blinking light and only costs $9.97. Hangs around your neck like a long, thin necklace. Look it up. My son scoffed at me for using it until I sent him one for his night walks and night bike rides. He no longer carries a flashlight when he walks at night!

[Graspher]

And quit walking in the cart lanes. That's what sidewalks are for!

:bigbow: I didn't mention that in my original post cause I didn't want things to get too heated. But yes, thank you - I agree 100% with that as both a bicyclist and walker.

All the "invisible" folks that I referenced in my original post were in the MMP which is alongside a sidewalk. Where there is no sidewalk - no issue.

Today I approached two "invisibles" - one in the MMP and the other next to her walking in the car lane. They weren't social distancing...just living dangerously. Since they were in front of me they didn't see the blinkys and they didn't hear the peddling or the sound of me gasping for air.

And so it goes.....

[Graspher]

Thank you Grasper!! We also ride our bikes and have trouble seeing people in dark clothing.

I knew I wasn't the only one!!

[Graspher]

If you are coming up behind them, it sounds like they are on the wrong side of the path. They should be walking facing oncoming traffic.

True. I'm a walker too and for my safety I walk against the traffic flow. It's about minimizing risk....

[Graspher]

Let me make a suggestion. I live in Pennecamp and drive my golf cart early in the morning up and down St. Charles and Bailey Trail..... at that time of morning, it is pitch black and I have seen any number of walkers, wearing neutral colored clothes, walking either on the sidewalk or in the multi-lane.....you cannot see them until you are right on top of them. So, this is what I would suggest. "It's better to light one little flashlight than to cuss the dark." I went to Walmart and bought little l.e.d. flashlights for $1.00 each. I carry them with me in the golf cart and give them to walkers who have no visibility without them. I have given away, probably 60 or more of these little flashlights. The call me "the flashlight boy". What don't you try it.

Excellent gesture - I'm going to think on that one. Thanks for posting....

[Graspher]

Exactly! You see its a problem then you do something about it. Dont expect others to do it for you

I'm not expecting anyone to do anything for me. Folks need to do things for themselves - whatever they feel is appropriate for their own safety.

[Graspher]

A reflective vest will work great when cars and carts are approaching you in the dark. Your little penlight is handy when you need to look down at the pooper scooper, however, it has little value for visibility. I attempt to be as aware as possible driving but I still almost run someone over frequently at 5:30 AM, misty mornings especially. Don't let your dogs wander into the street because your leash won't protect them. Invisible runners are just playing with fire. :MOJE_whot:

:bigbow:

[Graspher]

It's really simple. You are responsible (most of the time) if you hit a pedestrian. Yeah, he or she should be wearing something that makes them visible in the darkness, but YOU need to see where you are going. YOU need a light that illuminates the area in front of you that allows you to stop in time. What if there was a 12 foot alligator lying in the darkness.... or a large branch lying in the path? What then?

When stupid people are about, we need to be smarter.

Yup - I don't disagree with that!

[Graspher]

Very scary riding in the dark with no visibility in certain areas. I don’t get why you would even think about doing that? Are you expecting the alligators and other animals wondering around in the dark to dress for your benefit as well?

Hehehe....good one - nope, not expecting that.

Everywhere I ride that early in the a.m. is mostly illuminated - not well, but well enough for my eyes to see. The dark patches I mentioned previously are spotty.

[Graspher]

Some people simply don't get the point. The poster is pleading with foolish people walking in the dark to please carry a light. I ride my bike most days early in the morning when it's very dark. I have an LED headlight and a blinking LED tail light on my bike. The headlight can easily be seen from 500 feet, but it doesn't illuminate my path for 500 feet. This morning there were three stupid people out walking in the dark without a light. When I went by the single person, I told her she should carry a light for her own protection. No response. The second encounter was two women without a light, one on each side of the multimode path walking toward me, and I was forced to ride my bike (slowly) between them. I was within 40-50 feet before I saw them. What in the world were they thinking? Several other walkers were out this morning carrying a light. Smart people.

:bigbow: BINGO!!! Thanks for taking the time to share that - most appreciated.

[Graspher]

Sorry - I dont get it! From what I have seen myself there are walkers all the time in the golf cart lanes on the main streets in the villages. Why is this? There are sidewalks right next to them that cost (us) a lot of money. If I was a walker I would be ON THE SIDEWALK. Why put yourself in a situation where you may be run into/over by a bike or a golf cart. The most dangerous thing in the villages is a golfer on his way to an early round in the dark. They are not thinking of much but the game or are still asleep. (Three close calls with them on a residential street while walking my dog while waving a very bright LED flashlight at them.)

There is another thought here - you now have electric bikes that are doing 20 or more mph in the golf cart lane. Will a walker survive an impact like that - maybe or maybe not. You can not or will not hear these coming like you might hear a golf cart. When a sidewalk is available USE IT!

:boom: Power to the FUZZ!

[Graspher]

Simple fix
Ride on the road. You are less apt to run into a walker as you peddle along at 12mph. At the time you ride there is not much traffic. You can exercise your right of way, and remember stop signs are not just for when you feel like stopping. BIKE RIDERS GET PRETTY MILITANT when it comes to how the motor vehicle laws protect their rights.
Yield to faster moving vehicles, keep to the right and when you see a large group of bike riders on the road exercising their right, be sure to tell them large groups impede traffic and creates dangerous situations. Also tell the block head at the rear of the group, you know , it’s the one on the left hugging the line as if to protect the group from behind, only a complete idiot would put their body out there with this false sense of safety. Better yet
Get them to take a safety course.
I agree about the walkers wearing dark cloths on the MMP and the streets as well. Dummies are not in short supply.


Right on to all of that. True, there aren't many cars at that time but I'm relatively new to "long distance bike riding (for me)" and at this time prefer to take my chances with invisibles, clotheless alligators, animals and the like versus a 3,000 pound torpedo.

[Graspher]

Not only the safety factor, but it is ILLEGAL. Florida statute 316.130 sec. 3 states "(3) Where sidewalks are provided, no pedestrian shall, unless required by other circumstances, walk along and upon the portion of a roadway paved for vehicular traffic." I have no idea what the attraction is to walking in a lane designated for carts going 20 mph . (and I'm not talking about the few feet people jump into the cart lane to maintain "social distancing", I'm talking about those that just take their whole walk in the cart lane)

Touché

[xcaligirl]

For the active folks who are walking and jogging in the early morning (read that as in the dark) - for gosh sakes - carry a flashlight or wear some form of lighting gadget or at least put on a reflective vest.

If one is walking in the dark while wearing dark clothing - I as a bicyclist can not see you. I don't have a 12 volt headlight on my bike revealing dark objects 150 feet in front of me.

As part of my 20 mile bike loop I travel along CHURCHILL DOWNS between 5 and 6 a.m. There are street lights and ambient light along that road but there are also MANY pockets of absolute pure DARKNESS.

Over this past weekend I encountered 3 individuals walking along the MMP who perfectly blended in with the darkness.

I'm traveling along at 12 mph with white blinky lights on the front of my bike and a red blinky on the rear. My white lights do not illuminate anything - they are eye catchers for others to see me.

I'm coming up from behind - you don't see my lights and my bike is quiet - you are camouflaged in the darkness - I may or may not be able to see you.

Don't chance an unwelcomed intersection between you and me.

If you walk, jog, rollerblade, skate or longboard in the dark - make sure you can be seen by those in front and in back of you.

The majority of folks I encounter in the early a.m. are highly visible - thanks to all who are.

For those who aren't - use a smidge of common sense and light yourself up. It's about safety - be safe!
Also, they should NOT be in your lane, going the same direction as you. Walkers/joggers/runners should be going against the traffic so they can see a cart or bike coming towards them and be able to get out o their way. it's a known fact everywhere I've ever been to walk on the opposite side of the path. The same if they are walking/running/etc on the street.... walk against the traffic. When I started jogging/walking I was told of the 'rule'. I did have a hard time adjusting but I would never walk with the traffic ever again. And, ALWAYS wear colors to be seen!! If they don't have the proper attire, perhaps they should wait until it's light out. They need to be aware of the sun rising, it might not be in their eyes, however it could be shining in the eyes of the golf cart or cyclist. Common sense saves lives!! Thanks for your post.

[Graspher]

Also, they should NOT be in your lane, going the same direction as you. Walkers/joggers/runners should be going against the traffic so they can see a cart or bike coming towards them and be able to get out o their way. it's a known fact everywhere I've ever been to walk on the opposite side of the path. The same if they are walking/running/etc on the street.... walk against the traffic. When I started jogging/walking I was told of the 'rule'. I did have a hard time adjusting but I would never walk with the traffic ever again. And, ALWAYS wear colors to be seen!! If they don't have the proper attire, perhaps they should wait until it's light out. They need to be aware of the sun rising, it might not be in their eyes, however it could be shining in the eyes of the golf cart or cyclist. Common sense saves lives!! Thanks for your post.

Couldn’t agree more!!!!